mate
Translation
buddy, friend, partner
Examples
Alright, mate? How are you doing?
Alright, buddy? How are you doing?
Lions often stay with the same mate for life.
Lions often stay with the same mate for life.
He's looking for a new flatmate.
He's looking for a new roommate.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.'s)) mate (sb.'s) partner (often for animals) The lioness protected her mate.
((a)) roommate/classmate a person who shares a room/class He is my roommate.
Similar Words
Synonyms: (friend) buddy, pal, friend; (partner) partner, spouse
Etymology
From Middle Low German 'mate' for 'comrade', linked to the concept of sharing a meal ('meat').
Memory Tips
While common in British English for 'friend', in the US it's more often heard in compounds like 'roommate' or for animals' partners. 'Buddy' is a closer American equivalent.